Acatenango, Guatemala: The Ultimate Guide

When I first heard about the Acatenango hike in Guatemala, I thought it sounded like pure madness— an overnight trek with a 5,000 feet (1500m) elevation gain at freezing temperatures, with thin air and little sleep. However, I may be a little insane too as I chose this hike to ring in my 30th birthday! Acatenango is a dormant volcano and the third tallest mountain in Central America at 13,045 feet (3976m) above sea level. However, Acatenango’s claim to fame is Fuego: its 12,346 foot (3763m) tall volcano twin which erupts every half hour. Fuego’s eruptions can be safely observed from the summit and slopes of Acatenango, and is now my most memorable hike to date! This guide covers things to know before climbing Acatenango, including my tour company recommendation.

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Why I Climbed Acatenango For My Birthday

I’ll be honest— this isn’t a hike you do on a whim. The Acatenango volcano hike is infamous for its difficulty, but what drew me in was its proximity to Volcán de Fuego, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. From Acatenango’s slopes, you can watch Fuego erupt every 15–30 minutes, spewing lava and ash into the sky. I love hiking because it’s the ultimate test of endurance, and requires great mental conditioning even more so than physical fitness. But, hiking can feel monotonous if there isn’t a great view at the end, and what better view can there be than an actively erupting volcano? Thus, climbing Acatenango was the perfect way to start my new decade as a reminder that I can accomplish hard things, and anything I set my mind to.

Preparing for the Climb

My journey began in Antigua, Guatemala, the charming colonial city from which all Acatenango tours depart. Most tour companies, including mine, provide gear, guides, basic meals and transportation, but I still had to pack wisely. Here’s a packing list for Acatenango:

• Warm layers: The trail starts at 26°C but drops to 0°C as you ascend and by nightfall. Also, take a hat, gloves, and multiple socks.
• Rain gear: Even in the dry season, weather changes fast on the mountain.
• Sturdy hiking boots: The trail is steep and slippery with volcanic sand.
• Headlamp: Essential for the 4 AM summit push.
• Snacks: My tour included three simple meals, but I packed chocolates and pastries for extra energy.
• Water: Each person needs 2-3L of water.
• Trekking poles: I didn’t have any but they would’ve been very helpful.
• Cash: Admission to Acatenango costs 100 quetzals (US$13), and an optional tour to the Fuego crater costs 200 quetzals (US$26) extra.

Start of the Acatenango Hike

Views in La Soledad

On the morning of the trek, I was picked up near my hotel in Antigua, shortly after which our guides distributed our food and warm clothing. This made my 20L backpack heavier than I’d expected— but there was no turning back. Next, we were driven for an hour to the small village of La Soledad located at 8,170 feet (2491m) above sea level where the Acatenango trailhead is located. The trail wasted no time as within minutes, we were climbing up steep slippery dirt paths through village farmlands. At ten minutes into the hike, I began wondering if I’d made a mistake signing up as the steep climb on loose volcano soil was brutal. Thankfully, a descending hiker saw the look of despair on my face and reassured me that the very first (and last) parts of the trail were the hardest. Thanks, sis!

It’s not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.

– Sir Edmund Hillary, the first person to reach the summit of Mount Everest

After an hour, farmlands gave way to dense cloud forest. The hot humid air cooled as the trail became shrouded by tree cover. The altitude made everything harder though. I had to stop frequently, gasping for air, while our guides encouraged us to take it slow. An American tourist, my husband and I lagged behind and could only speak in one word phrases, while the European tourists powered away, maintaining full conversations uphill. But, such is life. In Jamaica where our tallest mountain is only 7402 feet (2256m), we don’t get any exposure to high altitudes. I’d had mild altitude sickness at 11,200 feet (3400m) in Cusco, Peru three years ago, so this experience on a taller mountain wasn’t unexpected. Nonetheless, I loved this section of the trail– the towering conifers and mist swirling through the branches was breathtaking and mystical.

Acatenango Base Camp

Made it to base camp!

After five hours of steady climbing and four rest stops totaling thirty minutes, we finally reached Acatenango base camp at around 11,800 feet (3,600m). Part of the journey was marred by rain and hailstones, so we were wet and cold! Our tents were ready for us, set up on a rocky ledge. This ledge usually commands a perfect view of the Fuego Volcano across the valley but instead we were shrouded in fog. My husband and I dried off and watched downloaded series until we fell asleep, while the rest of my group attempted an unsuccessful hike to Fuego. But, as luck would have it, the fog cleared and we were awoken to a knock and shouts of “LAVA, LAVA, LAVA!” at 1am. Every 10 minutes or so, the mountain roared like thunder and a fountain of lava and ash shot into the sky. We cheered each time, like children watching fireworks. The ground rumbled under my feet, reminding me just how alive this landscape really was. This moment alone made the entire Acatenango overnight hike worth it.

The Acatenango Summit Push

At 3:30 AM, our guides woke us to get ready for the final ascent: a two-hour climb to the Acatenango summit at 13,045 feet (3976m). This was, without question, the hardest part. The trail was nothing but loose volcanic sand, and for every three steps forward, I slid one step back. My lungs burned from the altitude, and I questioned whether I’d make it. Again, the three of us lingered behind, stumbling into other groups which began their climb later than us. Sheer determination kept us going until the first light of dawn appeared, and with it came motivation. We climbed until the summit ridge came into view.

Reaching the top was pure magic. The sun broke over a sea of clouds, painting the sky orange and pink. Fuego erupted in the distance, sending a plume of smoke into the morning light. From up there, one can see other Guatemalan volcanoes— the majestic Agua, Pacaya, even distant peaks stretching toward Mexico. Despite the cold and exhaustion, I felt euphoric. No travel experience had ever left me so awestruck, besides witnessing a total solar eclipse last year. Since we arrived last, we had the shortest time at the peak as what goes up must come down. After a quick celebration and some photos, we began the long descent. Descending was faster but tough on the knees. By the time we reached the village again, my legs felt like noodles, my clothes were filthy, and I’d never been so ready for a shower. But, I was also incredibly proud of what I’d just accomplished.

Things I Learned from Hiking Acatenango

If you’re planning your own Acatenango volcano hike, these are my best tips:

1. Acclimatize in Antigua: Spend at least a day or two at altitude before hiking.
2. Don’t underestimate the cold: Nights on the volcano are freezing.
3. Go with a guide: While it’s possible to hike independently, having a guide made everything easier and safer.
4. Pace yourself: The hike is steep, and rushing only makes altitude sickness worse.

Acatenango FAQs Answered

1. How hard is the Acatenango hike?

The Acatenango hike is considered very challenging due to its steep incline with 5,000 feet (1500m) of elevation gain, high altitude, slippery trail conditions and cold temperatures. Most people with moderate fitness can complete it, but it’s important to pace yourself and be prepared for altitude effects. A guided tour is recommended for safety and logistics.

2. What makes the Acatenango volcano hike special?

The Acatenango volcano hike is unique because you get a front-row seat to the neighbouring Volcán de Fuego’s eruptions day and night. Seeing glowing lava under the stars and at sunrise is an unforgettable experience.

3. When is the best time to hike Acatenango?

The best time to hike Acatenango is during the dry season, from November to April. Clearer skies make for better views, and the trail is less muddy.

4. What’s Acatenango Base Camp Like?

My company had a few tents which slept five persons each. Each person got an individual sleeping bag. There was also an open shed with a fire pit, and a single latrine.

Wrap Up

Climbing Acatenango is the hardest physical challenge I’ve undertaken to date, but also the most memorable. From the lush forests to the fiery eruptions of Fuego and the surreal sunrise above the clouds, the experience felt otherworldly. If you’re traveling to Guatemala and in good physical shape, don’t miss this hike. Have you ever hiked to Acatenango, or would you love to? Sound off in the comments section below.

If you enjoyed this post, you may also like:

• 48 Hours in Panama City
• Elle’s Guide to Machu Picchu
• 8 Reasons to Visit Antigua, Guatemala
• 8 Reasons to Visit Medellin, Colombia

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